The rebellion promoted by the Percy family against their former ally King Henry IV has been heavily crushed at Shrewsbury. The rebels were weakened by the defection of the armies promised them by Northumberland and Owen Glendower, and greatly outnumbered by the King's forces. Their leader, the gallant Hotspur, has been killed in single combat with Prince Hal. Conflicting rumours reach Warkworth in Northumberland, where the Earl is eagerly waiting for news of the battle and of his son. (Covers 2 Henry IV Acts 1 & 2)

The burdens of kingship and of failing health weigh heavily upon Henry IV. After his victory at Shrewsbury, he has to organise a new campaign against the northern rebels. Disappointed in Prince Hal, who returns to his customary low haunts in London, the King sends his younger son, John of Lancaster, to negotiate with the rebel leaders. Falstaff journeys to Gloucestershire to muster recruits, and there falls in with an acquaintance, a simple country Justice, Master Shallow. (Covers 2 Henry IV Act 3 S1—conclusion)